Charles H. Fox to Richard Yates

New Orleans July 12, 1865

Gov. Yates

Dear Governor

I have written you once before and I have not yet received an answer at which I am not surprised knowing your time is fully confined with other and more important correspondents yet faithful to the promise I made you that I would occasionally communicate with you and inform you of how matters were progressing here I now proceed to do the same. I am still employed by Indy Kellogg in the Custom House having a position as Clerk in the auditors office at a salary of $1,600.00/a year. My health and that of my family is good as usual. The Judg's health is good and he is in my opinion conducting the affairs of the Custom House with ability giving general satisfaction to all and all you will I am in hopes after I become [illegible] with the turnings of the Custom House that the Judg will give me a more prominent position with an increased salary. That matter I have entirely with the Judg having

full confidence in his friendship and that when he deems it proper he will do what is right in the premises. The Judg in my opinion has made a good impression here and from his continued attention to the business will give satisfaction at Washington. He has my best wishes for his prosperity -

I suppose you will expect from me my opinion regarding Louisiana politics. Well they are in such a mixed condition that it is almost impossible to make a definite decision upon them. Since the surrender or capitulation of the Rebel Army thousands have return to the city and their home. They come here in quite a defiant manner. They declare they were not whipped but [illegible] and that under different circumstances they could succeed that is with more able Leaders. I am of the opinion that they still adhere to Davis position that there is an [illegible] Gulf between the North and the South and that although they have been broken in their Military Power yet they will yet accomplish their ends through the Ballot Box and they in my opinion are still and quietly working to that end. It is quite frequently asserted here by Rebels that the Southern men will go home here in a hurry yet

with their [illegible] broken many think that they will make it uncomfortable for us to remain here. With Gen Wells in their influence I am of the opinion they will carry it out. He is a bad man. He has put into responsible positions all the Rebels he could and by holding the offices they exercise a powerful influence. My opinion is this state is not yet prepared for self government. They are too unsettled entirely and if the military power is withdrawn from here we can pack our knapsacks and leave. Hence Governor I give it as my opinion that the enactment of a State Constitution is a "farce" not in the least respected by the Executive and only used and recognized when it suits the [illegible] of the Rebels and in your official action permit me to say that if you advocate the appointment of Provisional Governor for the state of Louisiana you will prevent anarchy and the sooner restore the state to loyalty by so doing. My kind regard to yourself and family.

I am with respect your ob sevt

Charles H. Fox

Charles H. Fox New Orleans La

Salary $1600 - [illegible] for more Louisiana politics mixed. Rebels control too much. You should advocate the appointment of Provisional Governor.